Average Melbourne Fitout Cost [2025 Price Guide]

First impressions are everything. 

Whether opening a boutique gym, launching a dental practice, or upgrading an aged care facility, your space sets the tone for your brand.

In a competitive Melbourne market, a carefully designed, fully compliant fitout is more than an investment — it’s a strategic advantage.

But before any layout is locked in or wall is painted, it’s crucial to understand how much you’ll be spending.

Fitout costs vary significantly based on scope, finish level, regulatory needs, and the type of business, which makes a “one size fits all” approach impossible..

If you want to stay on top of your project costs and run into fewer “surprises” along the way, here’s what you need to know.

What Drives the Cost of a Fitout?

Size of the Space

Square metreage is the foundation of most cost estimates. Larger sites often benefit from economies of scale, but the initial price tag increases proportionally with added surface area, volume of materials, and labour.

A 100 sqm dental clinic fitout differs substantially from a 700 sqm gym build — not just in size, but in layout complexity.

These projects are usually priced per square metre, but that figure can shift dramatically depending on the ratio of service-intensive zones (e.g., bathrooms, kitchens) versus open-plan areas.

Level of Finish and Material Selection

Premium finishes elevate perception — and price. Whether opting for polished concrete, stone surfaces, custom lighting or premium acoustic solutions, material decisions significantly affect the budget.

Choosing CSIRO-approved, long-lasting materials may carry a higher upfront cost, but ultimately saves on future maintenance.

Designers also consider texture, durability, and brand alignment. For instance, a high-end yoga studio may require natural materials and biophilic design elements, pushing the cost up compared to a simple office space.

Industry-Specific Requirements

Each sector brings its own set of non-negotiables. Medical fitouts need hygienic surfaces, sound insulation, and specific lighting, while childcare centres must adhere to safety, accessibility, and zoning regulations.

These added considerations demand more detailed planning, specialised trades, and custom equipment.

In wellness or fitness spaces, flooring must absorb shock and resist wear. Kitchens and food prep areas demand waterproofing, grease traps, exhausts, and commercial-grade ventilation — all of which add complexity and cost.

Structural Modifications and Services

Any work that involves moving walls, adding mezzanines, or altering existing structural elements adds to the price. This is especially relevant in warehouse conversions or older buildings with unpredictable conditions.

Reconfiguring plumbing, electricals, or HVAC also incurs extra labour and materials, especially if relocating service cores.

BONUS: Mechanical, Electrical, and Hydraulic (MEH) Considerations

Projects that involve commercial kitchens, healthcare setups, or gyms typically require upgrades or new installations for air conditioning, fire systems, and hydraulic services — all governed by strict codes.

Compliance and Permits

Building permits, planning approvals, and health department sign-offs — regulatory compliance is not optional. Each requirement introduces design considerations, waiting periods, and consultant fees.

Fitouts that change building use (e.g., converting a retail shop to a medical suite) must pass additional planning scrutiny.

Navigating this complexity is time-consuming unless managed by professionals who understand council regulations and can fast-track approvals.

Custom Joinery and Fixtures

Bespoke fittings shape the personality of a space, but also impact the budget. Think built-in reception desks, display shelving, acoustic wall panels, or purpose-built cabinetry for dentists or physiotherapists.

These custom elements involve higher craftsmanship, longer production time, and material sourcing that’s rarely standard.

Off-the-shelf solutions may save money, but they often compromise on visual cohesion and brand alignment.

Project Management and Timeline Constraints

Tight deadlines or staged construction phases require additional coordination, extended site hours, and potentially premium labour costs.

Projects with rigid handover dates — such as childcare centres needing to open by school term — often need multiple trades working in sync, which raises supervision and scheduling expenses.

Engaging a provider who handles design, approvals, and build within a unified team structure helps reduce this overhead.

Site Accessibility and Logistics

Difficult access can increase costs for material delivery, waste removal, and on-site labour. Upper-level tenancies, sites in high-traffic CBD zones, or locations with restrictive parking often lead to loading fees or after-hours work.

Furthermore, some shopping centres impose fitout restrictions and require centre-approved contractors for fire, sprinkler, and HVAC work — often at higher rates.

Factoring in those logistical details early prevents delays and budget blowouts down the track.

Melbourne Fitout Pricing Breakdown

Creating a refined, high-functioning commercial space involves more than good taste and bold ideas — it demands clear-eyed budgeting.

Office Fitout

Melbourne office fitouts usually fall between $750 to $1,300 per square metre. This range includes open-plan workspaces, meeting rooms, basic amenities, and standard finishes.

Modular systems and pre-finished joinery can help reduce costs, while high-spec boardrooms, acoustics, and tech integration can push the upper limit.

Medical and Dental Fitout

Due to regulatory requirements and high-performance finishes, medical fitouts demand greater investment.

Budget $1,200 to $2,200 per square metre, depending on the level of surgical preparation, infection control standards, and equipment integration. Compliance with AS/NZS standards adds complexity, often requiring specialist consultants.

Gym or Fitness Centre

Gyms, studios, and wellness centres typically range from $500 to $900 per square metre. Variables include flooring, mirrors, ceiling height adjustments, change rooms, lighting, and zoning approval.

High-end fitouts with custom flooring, wellness zones, and branding elements lean toward the higher end.

Childcare Centre

Regulated environments such as childcare require special layouts, soft furnishings, child-safe fixtures, and outdoor spaces. Costs average $1,400 to $2,000 per square metre.

Additional outlays often include play equipment, impact flooring, kitchen setups, and compliance with early learning standards.

Café or Food Premises

Hospitality fitouts are among the most complex, averaging $2,000 to $3,500 per square metre due to exhaust systems, grease traps, stainless surfaces, waterproofing, and food-safe compliance.

Small 70 m² sites can easily reach $200,000 or more, especially when premium finishes and brand design are prioritised.

Mezzanine (Basic Structure Only)

For raw mezzanine construction (without internal fitout), expect $150 to $250 per square metre. This includes stairs and structural support but excludes walls, floor coverings, insulation, or fire-rating works.

Mezzanines add usable area without triggering full floorplate redesigns, making them a cost-efficient option in many commercial conversions.

6 Ways to Save Without Sacrificing Quality

#1 – Engage a Design + Construct Partner from Day One

Working with a team that manages both design and construction under one roof reduces duplication, improves communication, and saves time.

Early collaboration ensures the design reflects budget realities — not just aesthetics — and streamlines the permit and documentation process.

This approach also eliminates handover gaps between the architect, the project manager, and the builder, which are common culprits of budget overruns.

#2 – Lock In the Scope Before You Build

Changing layouts or finishes once construction begins creates costly ripple effects. Materials may already be ordered, trades scheduled, or permits lodged.

Finalising your selections — including paint colours, flooring types, joinery details and lighting — before site works commence keeps timelines and finances under control.

To aid decision-making, choose a provider offering free 3D renders and walkthroughs, allowing you to visualise the finished product before committing.

#3 – Prioritise Materials That Balance Durability and Cost

High-end doesn’t always mean high-maintenance. Selecting materials that offer long wear, easy cleaning, and timeless appeal (such as commercial vinyl, laminates, and modular cabinetry) reduces both upfront and future costs.

Not every surface needs to be custom — reserve premium finishes for focal areas and opt for cost-effective solutions elsewhere.

Always verify that materials meet Australian Standards and carry CSIRO approval to avoid compliance issues later.

#4 – Understand and Plan for Hidden Services

Unseen components — HVAC, sprinklers, data cabling, grease traps — are often the most expensive surprises. Investing in an initial site survey or feasibility report can help identify these hidden services and avoid last-minute redesigns.

If working in a strata or shopping centre environment, know what base-building rules apply and what infrastructure must remain untouched.

This insight allows smarter allocation of funds and prevents expensive reworks.

#5 – Be Strategic with Staging

If cash flow is tight, consider a phased fitout approach. For example, complete the reception, client-facing zones, and essential services first, then schedule back-of-house works for a later date.

Make sure this plan is baked into the initial design to avoid waste and duplication.

Carefully staged timelines keep business operations flexible without compromising long-term vision.

#6 – Don’t Underestimate the Value of Permits and Compliance

While it may be tempting to cut corners here, non-compliant builds often lead to fines, downtime, or full demolitions.

Instead of retrofitting costly fixes, ensure your provider handles building permits, planning approvals, and health authority submissions upfront.

Partnering with a fully licensed team prevents issues and gives peace of mind long after handover.

Tips For Finding the Right Fitout Partner

Prioritise Proven Experience in Your Sector

Not all fitout specialists are created equal. A provider with experience in your specific industry — whether it’s medical, wellness, childcare, or hospitality — understands the compliance requirements, flow, and operational needs unique to your space.

Ask to see case studies or completed projects that match your business type. At PGDC Commercial Builds, our portfolio spans national fitness chains, boutique dental clinics, and high-end food premises — all tailored, all functional.

Seek Transparency in Pricing and Process

Trustworthy providers are upfront about costs, deliverables, and timelines. Look for a company that offers detailed quotes, clear milestones, and contract terms that protect both parties.

Avoid those who hesitate to commit to timelines or sidestep questions about inclusions.

Reputable builders are open to comparison. In fact, we encourage prospective clients to seek multiple quotes, confident that PGDC’s integrated service, build quality, and value will rise above the rest.

Check for Accreditation, Licensing and Insurance

Ensure the provider holds relevant commercial building licenses, is CM3 certified, and registered with professional bodies such as the Master Builders Association or VBA.

This ensures they meet safety and performance standards and can legally complete commercial works.

All PGDC installations meet Australian Standards, with full public liability insurance and long-term structural warranties — no exceptions.

Value Communication and Turnkey Solutions

The best results come from seamless collaboration. Choose a partner who offers end-to-end service, from design to compliance to handover.

Look for responsiveness, design support, and a streamlined process that reduces your workload, not adds to it.

Our clients benefit from free 3D renders, in-house design, council submissions, and efficient project coordination, making PGDC a one-stop solution for busy business owners.

Recap: Fitout Costs Demystified

• Fitout costs vary based on business type, design complexity, finishes, and compliance needs.
• Square metre pricing gives a starting point, but industry-specific standards can increase costs.
• Early planning, transparent quotes, and a unified design-build approach help avoid cost blowouts.
• Strategic decisions — such as phased fitouts or choosing durable, compliant materials — can significantly reduce unnecessary expenses.
• Always partner with licensed professionals who understand regulations and deliver with integrity.

Summary of Pricing Ranges

• Office Fitouts: $750 – $1,300/m²
• Medical or Dental: $1,200 – $2,200/m²
• Gym/Fitness Centres: $500 – $900/m²
• Childcare Centres: $1,400 – $2,000/m²
• Food Premises: $2,000 – $3,500/m²
• Basic Mezzanine Builds: $150 – $250/m²

Bring Your Vision to Life with Confidence

With over 100 years of combined experience, industry accreditations across all states, and a reputation for precision, we’ve become Melbourne’s trusted name in commercial fitouts.

From boutique fitness studios to highly regulated healthcare environments, every project we undertake is guided by detail, driven by quality, and delivered on time.

Our turnkey service eliminates the usual stress points, offering free 3D renders, fast-tracked approvals, and CSIRO-certified materials that stand the test of time. We’re not here to compete on shortcuts.

Contact PGDC Commercial Builds today for personalised guidance or speak to a member of our team on (03) 9822 0645 now.